Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Whole Cabbage: A Tender and Flavorful Side Dish

Ingredients:

• 1 medium whole cabbage (about 2-3 pounds)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, thyme, and basil)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
•  Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Remove any loose outer leaves from the cabbage and trim the stem so that the cabbage can sit flat. Cut an “X” into the core to help the heat penetrate evenly while cooking.
2. Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stuff the Cabbage: Gently pull apart the cabbage leaves, being careful not to tear them completely off the head. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture in between the layers of cabbage, using a spoon to coat as many leaves as possible. Reserve a small amount of the garlic butter for later.
4. Place in the Slow Cooker: Place the whole cabbage in the slow cooker, cut side down. Pour the vegetable or chicken broth around the cabbage (this will help steam it as it cooks).
5. Cook the Cabbage: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the cabbage is tender but still holds its shape. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of the cabbage.
6. Add Parmesan: Once the cabbage is tender, drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the top and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the cabbage. Cover the slow cooker again and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the Parmesan has melted.
7. Serve: Carefully remove the cabbage from the slow cooker (using tongs or two large spatulas to keep it intact) and transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty flavor.

Variations and Add-Ins

•  Cheesy Twist: For an even cheesier version, add shredded mozzarella or Gruyère along with the Parmesan.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a bit of heat.
• Herb Upgrade: Use fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano instead of dried Italian seasoning for a more aromatic dish.
• Bacon Topping: Crumble cooked bacon over the top of the cabbage before serving for extra savory flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Garlic Parmesan Cabbage

• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cabbage as it cooks. You want it tender but not mushy, so check it with a fork or knife after the minimum recommended cooking time.
• Cabbage Size Matters: If your cabbage is larger than 3 pounds, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Grating your own Parmesan will give you the best flavor and texture compared to pre-shredded varieties.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 120-150 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 5g

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Whole Cabbage is an easy, flavorful side dish that transforms humble cabbage into something special. With the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan, this cabbage is a wonderful accompaniment to a variety of meals, from roast chicken to grilled meats. The slow cooker makes it a hands-off recipe, perfect for busy days when you want a delicious, healthy dish with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try for a new take on cabbage!